Some resisted the concept, which would eliminate post-faceoff puck battles around the boards in favor of those around the front of the net.

That would, at least in theory, boost scoring, an area of concern for the NHL.

Another change contemplated with the goal of increasing offense was a rule preventing shot-blocking. Almost 17,000 shots were blocked last season, led by the Philadelphia Flyers, who turned aside nearly 700.

"We always talk about creating rules to create offense, create offense," Treliving said. "And we give it to our coaches and 10 minutes later they've figured out a way to kill that idea.

"But if you find a way to limit defense and instead of giving them tools for the toolbox take a few out. We spent a lot of time on that today."

A shift of the point system was also discussed, one that would see clubs awarded three points for a regulation win, two points for an overtime or shootout win and one point for an overtime or shootout loss. The concept would push teams to end games before they get past regulation.

Clubs get the same two points for winning in regulation as they do in overtime or a shootout. An extra "loser point" is awarded just for getting to overtime or the shootout, an enticing proposition for parity that keeps more teams in the playoff mix for longer.

"I'm not one who is personally in favor of three-point games," Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Lou Lamoriello said. "But I'm also not in favor of getting a point if you don't win. I'd rather see the game be 2-and-0 or end up in a tie 1-and-1. Just end up in a tie the way it used to be."

New Jersey Devils general manager Ray Shero thought the game would be played differently if the stakes for points were changed.

"If it's going to make the game better or more interesting I'd be all for it," Shero said.

The annual meetings this week are featuring a 31st general manager for the first time, with George McPhee of the Las Vegas Golden Knights in attendance. The former Washington Capitals GM, McPhee opted to keep quiet and listen on his first day back in the fold.

Any ideas that gained some traction would be discussed further on Tuesday.

"The game's in pretty good shape right now," McPhee said, "so this is more about what the game might look like down the road."